The Snohomish PUD Commissioners deserve a big thank you from all of us for their wisdom in halting the Sunset Falls Hydro Project (“PUD scraps Skykomish River hydroelectric project,” The Herald, April 11).

It was the right thing to do for district ratepayers, for threatened salmon and for Snohomish County. Developments since the project was first proposed made it less and less desirable: realization that financial viability would require reducing river flows to levels that would be unsafe for fish and non-compliant with state minimum flow requirements; development of two major landslides in the immediate area; and most importantly, falling electrical demand from conservation and energy efficiency made the project unnecessary to meet projected future needs.

The decision also recognizes the major and increasing importance of outdoor recreation to Snohomish County’s economy and preserves a crown jewel in our scenic outdoor attractions — a free-flowing Skykomish River.

Well done, commissioners!

Petrie Rainey

Gold Bar